In this chapter, we'll discover various network layers, and their roles and configuration for building optimized XenDesktop environments. As networking is responsible for connecting various distributed components required for successful connectivity to the virtual desktop, there exists a great scope to further enhance XenDesktop reliability, security, and performance at this layer. XenDesktop networking also includes both network virtualization concepts as well as Windows networking. Getting the networking configured correctly can be a key factor for the success of your overall XenDesktop deployment.

We'll start with understanding networking concepts in general as well as virtualized environments. Then, we'll dive deeper into the layers of networking involved in the XenDesktop environment. Here is a quick outline of topics we'll discuss in this chapter: